A new role for research in achieving prosperity in the Middle East

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assert a mainstream role for focused R&D as a service activity for the economy and for society in a prosperous and harmonious Middle East.

Design/methodology/approach

Comparative review of science policy options in the context of today's Middle Eastern economies and societies, their competitiveness, needs, aspirations.

Findings

A clear case for a university‐based R&D policy targeting the needs and potential of each nation so as to stimulate entrepreneurship, job creation and renewal of traditional sectors and small firms.

Practical implications

Priority allocation of resources to targeted R&D together with associated policy changes to achieve an open socio‐economic climate conducive to innovation and birth of new activities.

Originality/value

To remind policymakers of recent international experience and thus help identify a Middle Eastern R&D focus also in the context of Islam's historic appreciation of the value of knowledge and learning.

Citation

Ruscoe, J. (2008), "A new role for research in achieving prosperity in the Middle East", Education, Business and Society: Contemporary Middle Eastern Issues, Vol. 1 No. 1, pp. 6-11. https://doi.org/10.1108/17537980810861466